US6283777B1 - Dual style connector for handheld computer - Google Patents

Dual style connector for handheld computer Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US6283777B1
US6283777B1 US09/318,886 US31888699A US6283777B1 US 6283777 B1 US6283777 B1 US 6283777B1 US 31888699 A US31888699 A US 31888699A US 6283777 B1 US6283777 B1 US 6283777B1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
handheld computer
connector
style
conductive elements
pogo
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US09/318,886
Inventor
Francis J. Canova
Madeleine L. Francavilla
Amy A. Han
Traci A. Neist
Robert G. Twiss
Dennis J. Boyle
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Qualcomm Inc
Original Assignee
Palm Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Palm Inc filed Critical Palm Inc
Priority to US09/318,886 priority Critical patent/US6283777B1/en
Assigned to 3COM CORPORATION reassignment 3COM CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CANOVA, FRANCIS J., FRANCAVILLA, MADELEINE, NEIST, TRACI A., TWISS, ROBERT G., BOYLE, DENNIS J., HAN, AMY A.
Priority to PCT/US2000/012853 priority patent/WO2000074175A1/en
Priority to AU48379/00A priority patent/AU4837900A/en
Assigned to PALM, INC. reassignment PALM, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: 3COM CORPORATION
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US6283777B1 publication Critical patent/US6283777B1/en
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: PALM, INC.
Assigned to PALM, INC. reassignment PALM, INC. RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT
Assigned to HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. reassignment HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PALM, INC.
Assigned to PALM, INC. reassignment PALM, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.
Assigned to HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. reassignment HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PALM, INC.
Assigned to PALM, INC. reassignment PALM, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.
Assigned to HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. reassignment HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PALM, INC.
Assigned to QUALCOMM INCORPORATED reassignment QUALCOMM INCORPORATED ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY, HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P., PALM, INC.
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01RELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R27/00Coupling parts adapted for co-operation with two or more dissimilar counterparts
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1632External expansion units, e.g. docking stations
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01RELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R2107/00Four or more poles
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01RELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R24/00Two-part coupling devices, or either of their cooperating parts, characterised by their overall structure
    • H01R24/60Contacts spaced along planar side wall transverse to longitudinal axis of engagement
    • H01R24/62Sliding engagements with one side only, e.g. modular jack coupling devices

Definitions

  • This invention pertains to connectors for connecting computing devices.
  • embodiments of this invention encompass a connector for coupling a handheld computer to an accessory device using anyone of at least two connector styles.
  • Handheld computers may be coupled to peripheral or accessory devices to enhance their abilities and functions.
  • Typical accessory devices for handheld computers include communication cradles or docking stations, battery chargers, Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices, and modems.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • Handheld computers are adapted to mate with the handheld computer using either wiping style connectors or pogo style connectors.
  • Accessory devices that employ a wiping style connector have a number of spring-biased contacts that are spaced apart and parallel to one another.
  • the plurality of spring-biased contacts are then positioned on the accessory device to contact and wipe across a corresponding mating surface of the handheld computer.
  • the handheld computer may then be positioned to slide across a surface of the accessory device containing the wiping style connector in order to establish electrical contact.
  • the wiping style connectors are contained on a surface of the accessory device that is adapted to be retained against the handheld computer.
  • Examples of such accessory devices include communication cradles or docking stations which position the wiping style connector parallel to a face of the handheld computer that retains the corresponding contact surface.
  • a specific example of a handheld computer that is adapted to mate with an accessory device in this manner is the Palm IIITM organizer, manufactured by the 3Com Corp.
  • Other accessory devices employ pogo style connectors which secure mechanically to the handheld computer while providing a plurality of pogo pins to establish electrical contact with the handheld computer.
  • the pins are biased and protrude normally to contact the contact surface of the handheld computer.
  • Pogo pin connectors are sometimes used with smaller accessory devices which plug into an output port of the handheld computer, typically at or near a bottom edge of the handheld computer.
  • handheld computers were adapted to connect with accessory devices having either one or the other type of connector.
  • FIG. 1A is an isometric frontal view of a handheld computer incorporating an embodiment of this invention.
  • FIG. 1B is an isometric back view of the handheld computer of FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 2A is a back view of the handheld computer showing details of an embodiment of a connector under this invention.
  • FIG. 2B is a view of a bottom edge of the handheld computer in FIG. 2 A.
  • FIG. 2C is a close-up of a connector used with the handheld computer of FIG. 2 A.
  • FIG. 3 is a top view of a pogo connector used to couple with an embodiment of this invention.
  • FIG. 4A is a front view of the handheld computer coupled to a cradle.
  • FIG. 4B is a side view of FIG. 4A, showing the handheld computer mating with a wiping style connector of the communication cradle.
  • Embodiments of this invention provide a versatile connector for use with portable computers, and in particular, handheld computers.
  • a connector is positioned near or at an edge of the handheld computer and provides a first contact surface that is parallel to a back face of the handheld computer, and a second contact surface that is perpendicular or acute with respect to the first contacts surface and the back face.
  • the first contact surface enables the handheld computer to mate with wiping style connectors, typically found on accessory devices such as communication cradles.
  • the second contact surface enables the handheld computer to connect with pogo style connectors, which may be associated with more portable accessory devices such as travel chargers.
  • FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a handheld computer 100 incorporating a connector 110 under an embodiment of this invention.
  • the handheld computer 100 may include palm style computers such as a PalmPilotTM, Palm IIITM, or Palm VTM organizers, manufactured by the 3Com Corporation.
  • Other embodiments of the invention can include Windows CETM handheld computers, or other handheld computers and personal digital assistants.
  • FIG. 1A is a frontal view of the handheld computer 100 incorporating embodiments of this invention.
  • the handheld computer 100 has interactive hardware and software that perform functions such as maintaining calendars and phone lists.
  • the handheld computer 100 includes a top and bottom edge 102 , 104 , and a pair of opposing lateral sides 105 .
  • a front face 111 of the handheld computer 100 includes a plurality of input functions keys 115 and a display 114 having graphic user interface features.
  • the handheld computer 100 may communicate with a network such as the Internet, or desktop computers through one or more ports.
  • the handheld computer 100 may include, for example, an infra-red (IR) port (not shown), and an output port (FIG. 1B) that incorporates a connector 150 of this invention.
  • IR infra-red
  • FIG. 1B output port
  • the connector 150 is preferably positioned at the bottom edge 104 of the handheld computer 100 .
  • the position of the connector 150 at the bottom edge 104 facilitates receiving connectors of accessory devices in two or more directions to mate with the handheld computer 100 .
  • the connector 150 of the output port includes a plurality of contact elements 160 contained in an insulative body 155 .
  • the insulative body 155 provides insulative material between the individual contact elements 160 .
  • the insulative body 155 is shaped to include an elevated surface 205 and a base surface 210 .
  • the insulative body 155 includes a plurality of spaced-apart extensions 215 that extend toward the bottom edge 104 from the elevated surface 205 and over the base surface 210 .
  • the extensions 215 are spaced apart to insulate individual contact elements 160 located between adjacent pairs of extensions.
  • the contact elements 160 adapt the connector 150 to mate with two different kinds of connectors.
  • Each contact element 160 has a vertical and horizontal contact dimension with respect to a back face 112 of the handheld computer 100 .
  • each of the contact elements 160 include a horizontal contact dimension for mating with a wiping style connector and a vertical contact dimension for mating with a pogo-style.
  • the connector 150 may mate with, for example, a communication cradle 400 (shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B) which has a wiping style connector, or relatively smaller accessory devices that may have pogo style connectors (shown in FIG. 3 ).
  • FIG. 2A illustrates the back face 112 of the handheld computer 100 .
  • the insulative body 155 is integrated with the bottom edge of the handheld computer 100 and retains the contact elements a short distance from the bottom edge 104 .
  • FIG. 2A shows that each contact element includes a top contact surface 220 that is substantially planar with the back face 112 and a bottom contact surface 250 that is perpendicular with respect to the top contact surface 220 .
  • the top contact surfaces 220 extend into a back portion of the insulative body 155 distal to the bottom edge 104 .
  • each of the top contact surfaces 220 connect with or form into a lead of a printed circuit board embedded within the handheld computer 100 .
  • the orientation of the top contact surface 220 with respect to the back face 112 , as well as the planar shape and dimension of the top contact surfaces facilitates the connector 150 in mating with wiping style connector elements.
  • FIG. 2B shows each of the contact elements disposed between the extensions 215 to include the bottom contact surface 250 that forms the vertical portion of the respective contact element 160 .
  • the bottom contact surface 250 is preferably planar and extends to the base surface 215 of the insulative body 155 in a perpendicular direction. The orientation of the bottom contact surface 250 , as well as the dimension and shape of the bottom contact surface, facilitates the connector 150 in mating with pogo style connectors (shown in FIG. 3 ).
  • the connector 150 includes ten contact elements, including a parity bit and eight bits of data.
  • the extensions 215 serve to insulate the individual conductive elements positioned between adjacent pairs of extensions. It should be noted that while the extensions 215 are effective in isolating individual contact elements 260 , other embodiments may provide alternative configurations or components for retaining the individual conductive elements 160 .
  • FIGS. 2A and 2B further shows the output port to include a pair of opening 270 , 272 for receiving a mechanical coupling of a pogo style connector (FIG. 3 ).
  • the opening 270 , 272 are formed in the insulative body 155 on each lateral side of the combination of contact elements 160 .
  • the opening 270 , 272 are adapted to receive and secure a pogo style connector 300 (FIG. 3) that mates with the connector 150 .
  • each of the opening 270 , 272 includes a respective stop portion 280 , 282 .
  • the stop portions 280 , 282 are recesses in the openings 270 , 272 that allow a pair of engagement members 380 , 382 of the pogo connector 300 to release spring-biased levers 390 , 392 that lock on to the stop portions 280 , 282 of the connector 150 .
  • the openings 270 , 272 serve to securely retain the pogo style connector 300 in electrical contact with the connector 150 .
  • FIG. 2C a close-up side view of the connector 150 with the individual contact elements 160 shown in phantom behind the extensions 215 of the insulative body 155 .
  • the bottom contact surface 250 of each contact element 160 extends into the base surface 210 of the insulative body 155 and to the respective top contact surface 220 .
  • the top contact surface 220 of the contact element 160 extends into the elevated surface 205 of the insulative body 155 in horizontal alignment with the back face 112 of the handheld computer 100 .
  • the bottom contact surface 250 is preferably dimensioned to be shorter than the top contact surface 220 to adapt the connector 150 for mating with pogo style connector elements.
  • the resulting connector elements 160 are “L-shaped”, although other shapes or also possible.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a pogo connector 300 for use with an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the pogo connector 300 includes a plurality of connector elements 310 , each of which may be shaped as circular shaped extensions. Each connector element 310 of the pogo style connector 300 is spring-biased when moved inwards.
  • the pogo style connector 300 is adapted to connect with the connector 150 by securing the engagement members 380 , 382 into the openings 270 , 272 of the output port.
  • the spring-biased levers 390 , 392 extend outward from the engagement members 380 , 382 to fit into the respective opening 270 , 272 of the connector 150 and secure the pogo connector 300 with the handheld computer 100 .
  • the pogo connector 300 may be disengaged from the handheld computer 100 by biasing the levers 390 , 392 inwards so that the engagement members 380 , 382 can slide out of the insulative body 155 .
  • pogo connectors 300 enable the accessory device to be relatively small and portable.
  • An example of an accessory device that uses a pogo connector 300 includes a travel companion that plugs into an electrical socket and uses the pogo connector 300 to recharge batteries in the handheld computer 100 .
  • the handheld computer 100 is mated with a communication cradle 400 using a wiping style connector 410 .
  • the cradle 400 may be used as a docking station, and may facilitate connecting the handheld computer 100 to a desktop computer or network.
  • FIG. 4B illustrates that the cradle 400 includes a base 415 that rests on a platform or floor.
  • the cradle 400 includes a tilted front face 420 that merges into a ledge 430 .
  • the ledge 430 supports the handheld computer 100 from the bottom edge 104 .
  • the tilt of the front face 420 combined with the support of the ledge 430 serves to retain the handheld computer 100 on the cradle 400 .
  • the front face 420 accesses the wiping style connector 410 through an opening (not shown).
  • the wiping style connector 410 contacts the top surface 220 of connector 150 as the handheld computer 100 rests on the ledge 430 and against the tilted front face 420 .
  • the wiping style 410 connector may protrude or be accessed from an opening above the ledge 430 and may bias inwards when contacted by the top surface 220 of the connector 150 . In this way, the connector 150 of the handheld computer 100 is aligned to rest against the front face 420 so that the top surface 220 of the connector 150 is in alignment with the wiping style connector 410 .
  • elements 412 of the wiping style connector 410 are bent and biased so as to slide across the top contact surface 220 (FIGS. 2A-2C) of the connector 150 .
  • elements of the wiping style connector 410 wipe across the top contact surface 420 of the corresponding contact elements when the handheld computer 100 is moved into position along the front face 420 of the cradle 400 .
  • the PalmPilot communication cradle manufactured by the 3 Com Corp. utilizes wiping style connectors in the manner described above. Embodiments of the invention are available for such cradles, as well as other styled cradles mentioned below.
  • top contact surface and the bottom surface may be aligned acutely with respect to one another. While both top and bottom surfaces have been described as being planar, other embodiments may also provide for contoured or shaped contact surfaces.
  • the bottom contact surface 250 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C may include a divot centrally positioned for receiving one of the elements 310 of a pogo style connector.
  • FIG. 4B illustrates a communication cradle having wiping style connectors
  • alternative cradles for use with the handheld computer 100 may employ pogo style connectors.
  • the handheld computer 100 may then be dimensioned, shaped, or may position the connector 150 for a pogo style connector on the cradle.
  • the cradle may mount the connector on a ledge that directs the pogo contact elements vertically with respect to the handheld computer, rather than the front face of the cradle.
  • the handheld computer is then aligned to rest over the ledge of the cradle, with the connector 150 aligned to contact the pogo connector of the cradle.
  • Embodiments of the present invention may accommodate either kinds of connectors, thereby increasing the flexibility of the output port and the handheld computer 100 as a whole.

Abstract

Embodiments of this invention provide for a versatile connector that is capable of receiving any one of two types of connectors. The connector is preferably positioned on a bottom edge of a handheld computer to receive either pogo style or wiping style connectors. As a result, the connector enables the handheld computer to connect with accessory devices that use either style connectors. In particular, the handheld computer can connect with communication cradles using wiping style connectors, or smaller accessory devices that use pogo style connectors.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention pertains to connectors for connecting computing devices. In particular, embodiments of this invention encompass a connector for coupling a handheld computer to an accessory device using anyone of at least two connector styles.
2. Description of the Related Art
Handheld computers may be coupled to peripheral or accessory devices to enhance their abilities and functions. Typical accessory devices for handheld computers include communication cradles or docking stations, battery chargers, Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices, and modems. Generally, these devices are adapted to mate with the handheld computer using either wiping style connectors or pogo style connectors.
Accessory devices that employ a wiping style connector have a number of spring-biased contacts that are spaced apart and parallel to one another. The plurality of spring-biased contacts are then positioned on the accessory device to contact and wipe across a corresponding mating surface of the handheld computer. The handheld computer may then be positioned to slide across a surface of the accessory device containing the wiping style connector in order to establish electrical contact. Typically, the wiping style connectors are contained on a surface of the accessory device that is adapted to be retained against the handheld computer. Examples of such accessory devices include communication cradles or docking stations which position the wiping style connector parallel to a face of the handheld computer that retains the corresponding contact surface. A specific example of a handheld computer that is adapted to mate with an accessory device in this manner is the Palm III™ organizer, manufactured by the 3Com Corp.
Other accessory devices employ pogo style connectors which secure mechanically to the handheld computer while providing a plurality of pogo pins to establish electrical contact with the handheld computer. The pins are biased and protrude normally to contact the contact surface of the handheld computer. Pogo pin connectors are sometimes used with smaller accessory devices which plug into an output port of the handheld computer, typically at or near a bottom edge of the handheld computer.
Until now, handheld computers were adapted to connect with accessory devices having either one or the other type of connector. This limited handheld computers and accessory devices to incorporating a particular connector type or architecture. Consequently, accessory devices were designed around the type of connector being employed, rather than the type of connector best suited for the particular device.
Therefore, there is a need for a connector that enables the handheld computer to mate with either wiping style or pogo style connectors on an accessory device.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of this invention provide for a versatile connector that is capable of receiving any one of at least two types of connectors. The connector is preferably positioned on a bottom edge of a handheld computer to receive either pogo style or wiping style connectors. As a result, the connector enables the handheld computer to connect with accessory devices that use either style connectors. In particular, the handheld computer can connect with communication cradles using wiping style connectors, or smaller accessory devices that use pogo style connectors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1A is an isometric frontal view of a handheld computer incorporating an embodiment of this invention.
FIG. 1B is an isometric back view of the handheld computer of FIG. 1.
FIG. 2A is a back view of the handheld computer showing details of an embodiment of a connector under this invention.
FIG. 2B is a view of a bottom edge of the handheld computer in FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2C is a close-up of a connector used with the handheld computer of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 3 is a top view of a pogo connector used to couple with an embodiment of this invention.
FIG. 4A is a front view of the handheld computer coupled to a cradle.
FIG. 4B is a side view of FIG. 4A, showing the handheld computer mating with a wiping style connector of the communication cradle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments of this invention provide a versatile connector for use with portable computers, and in particular, handheld computers. In an embodiment, a connector is positioned near or at an edge of the handheld computer and provides a first contact surface that is parallel to a back face of the handheld computer, and a second contact surface that is perpendicular or acute with respect to the first contacts surface and the back face. The first contact surface enables the handheld computer to mate with wiping style connectors, typically found on accessory devices such as communication cradles. The second contact surface enables the handheld computer to connect with pogo style connectors, which may be associated with more portable accessory devices such as travel chargers.
FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a handheld computer 100 incorporating a connector 110 under an embodiment of this invention. The handheld computer 100 may include palm style computers such as a PalmPilot™, Palm III™, or Palm V™ organizers, manufactured by the 3Com Corporation. Other embodiments of the invention can include Windows CE™ handheld computers, or other handheld computers and personal digital assistants.
FIG. 1A is a frontal view of the handheld computer 100 incorporating embodiments of this invention. Preferably, the handheld computer 100 has interactive hardware and software that perform functions such as maintaining calendars and phone lists. The handheld computer 100 includes a top and bottom edge 102, 104, and a pair of opposing lateral sides 105. A front face 111 of the handheld computer 100 includes a plurality of input functions keys 115 and a display 114 having graphic user interface features. The handheld computer 100 may communicate with a network such as the Internet, or desktop computers through one or more ports. The handheld computer 100 may include, for example, an infra-red (IR) port (not shown), and an output port (FIG. 1B) that incorporates a connector 150 of this invention.
With reference to FIG. 1B, the connector 150 is preferably positioned at the bottom edge 104 of the handheld computer 100. The position of the connector 150 at the bottom edge 104 facilitates receiving connectors of accessory devices in two or more directions to mate with the handheld computer 100. The connector 150 of the output port includes a plurality of contact elements 160 contained in an insulative body 155. The insulative body 155 provides insulative material between the individual contact elements 160.
Preferably, the insulative body 155 is shaped to include an elevated surface 205 and a base surface 210. The insulative body 155 includes a plurality of spaced-apart extensions 215 that extend toward the bottom edge 104 from the elevated surface 205 and over the base surface 210. In an embodiment, the extensions 215 are spaced apart to insulate individual contact elements 160 located between adjacent pairs of extensions.
The contact elements 160 adapt the connector 150 to mate with two different kinds of connectors. Each contact element 160 has a vertical and horizontal contact dimension with respect to a back face 112 of the handheld computer 100. In an embodiment, each of the contact elements 160 include a horizontal contact dimension for mating with a wiping style connector and a vertical contact dimension for mating with a pogo-style. As a result, the connector 150 may mate with, for example, a communication cradle 400 (shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B) which has a wiping style connector, or relatively smaller accessory devices that may have pogo style connectors (shown in FIG. 3).
FIG. 2A illustrates the back face 112 of the handheld computer 100. Preferably, the insulative body 155 is integrated with the bottom edge of the handheld computer 100 and retains the contact elements a short distance from the bottom edge 104. FIG. 2A shows that each contact element includes a top contact surface 220 that is substantially planar with the back face 112 and a bottom contact surface 250 that is perpendicular with respect to the top contact surface 220. The top contact surfaces 220 extend into a back portion of the insulative body 155 distal to the bottom edge 104. Preferably, each of the top contact surfaces 220 connect with or form into a lead of a printed circuit board embedded within the handheld computer 100. The orientation of the top contact surface 220 with respect to the back face 112, as well as the planar shape and dimension of the top contact surfaces facilitates the connector 150 in mating with wiping style connector elements.
FIG. 2B shows each of the contact elements disposed between the extensions 215 to include the bottom contact surface 250 that forms the vertical portion of the respective contact element 160. The bottom contact surface 250 is preferably planar and extends to the base surface 215 of the insulative body 155 in a perpendicular direction. The orientation of the bottom contact surface 250, as well as the dimension and shape of the bottom contact surface, facilitates the connector 150 in mating with pogo style connectors (shown in FIG. 3). Preferably, the connector 150 includes ten contact elements, including a parity bit and eight bits of data. The extensions 215 serve to insulate the individual conductive elements positioned between adjacent pairs of extensions. It should be noted that while the extensions 215 are effective in isolating individual contact elements 260, other embodiments may provide alternative configurations or components for retaining the individual conductive elements 160.
FIGS. 2A and 2B further shows the output port to include a pair of opening 270, 272 for receiving a mechanical coupling of a pogo style connector (FIG. 3). The opening 270, 272 are formed in the insulative body 155 on each lateral side of the combination of contact elements 160. The opening 270, 272 are adapted to receive and secure a pogo style connector 300 (FIG. 3) that mates with the connector 150. Preferably, each of the opening 270, 272 includes a respective stop portion 280, 282. The stop portions 280, 282 are recesses in the openings 270, 272 that allow a pair of engagement members 380, 382 of the pogo connector 300 to release spring-biased levers 390, 392 that lock on to the stop portions 280, 282 of the connector 150. In this way, the openings 270, 272 serve to securely retain the pogo style connector 300 in electrical contact with the connector 150.
FIG. 2C a close-up side view of the connector 150 with the individual contact elements 160 shown in phantom behind the extensions 215 of the insulative body 155. The bottom contact surface 250 of each contact element 160 extends into the base surface 210 of the insulative body 155 and to the respective top contact surface 220. Similarly, the top contact surface 220 of the contact element 160 extends into the elevated surface 205 of the insulative body 155 in horizontal alignment with the back face 112 of the handheld computer 100. The bottom contact surface 250 is preferably dimensioned to be shorter than the top contact surface 220 to adapt the connector 150 for mating with pogo style connector elements. The resulting connector elements 160 are “L-shaped”, although other shapes or also possible.
FIG. 3 illustrates a pogo connector 300 for use with an embodiment of the present invention. The pogo connector 300 includes a plurality of connector elements 310, each of which may be shaped as circular shaped extensions. Each connector element 310 of the pogo style connector 300 is spring-biased when moved inwards. The pogo style connector 300 is adapted to connect with the connector 150 by securing the engagement members 380, 382 into the openings 270, 272 of the output port. The spring-biased levers 390, 392 extend outward from the engagement members 380,382 to fit into the respective opening 270, 272 of the connector 150 and secure the pogo connector 300 with the handheld computer 100. In this way, the connector elements 310 of the pogo connector 300 are securely maintained in contact with the corresponding contact element 160 of the connector 150. The pogo connector 300 may be disengaged from the handheld computer 100 by biasing the levers 390,392 inwards so that the engagement members 380, 382 can slide out of the insulative body 155.
One advantage provided by pogo connectors 300 is that they enable the accessory device to be relatively small and portable. An example of an accessory device that uses a pogo connector 300 includes a travel companion that plugs into an electrical socket and uses the pogo connector 300 to recharge batteries in the handheld computer 100.
With reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the handheld computer 100 is mated with a communication cradle 400 using a wiping style connector 410. The cradle 400 may be used as a docking station, and may facilitate connecting the handheld computer 100 to a desktop computer or network. FIG. 4B illustrates that the cradle 400 includes a base 415 that rests on a platform or floor. The cradle 400 includes a tilted front face 420 that merges into a ledge 430. The ledge 430 supports the handheld computer 100 from the bottom edge 104. The tilt of the front face 420 combined with the support of the ledge 430 serves to retain the handheld computer 100 on the cradle 400. The front face 420 accesses the wiping style connector 410 through an opening (not shown). The wiping style connector 410 contacts the top surface 220 of connector 150 as the handheld computer 100 rests on the ledge 430 and against the tilted front face 420. The wiping style 410 connector may protrude or be accessed from an opening above the ledge 430 and may bias inwards when contacted by the top surface 220 of the connector 150. In this way, the connector 150 of the handheld computer 100 is aligned to rest against the front face 420 so that the top surface 220 of the connector 150 is in alignment with the wiping style connector 410.
With reference to FIG. 4B, elements 412 of the wiping style connector 410 are bent and biased so as to slide across the top contact surface 220 (FIGS. 2A-2C) of the connector 150. In an embodiment, elements of the wiping style connector 410 wipe across the top contact surface 420 of the corresponding contact elements when the handheld computer 100 is moved into position along the front face 420 of the cradle 400. For example, the PalmPilot communication cradle manufactured by the 3Com Corp. utilizes wiping style connectors in the manner described above. Embodiments of the invention are available for such cradles, as well as other styled cradles mentioned below.
Alternative Embodiments
Alternative embodiments of this invention may provide for the top contact surface and the bottom surface to be aligned acutely with respect to one another. While both top and bottom surfaces have been described as being planar, other embodiments may also provide for contoured or shaped contact surfaces. For example, the bottom contact surface 250 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C may include a divot centrally positioned for receiving one of the elements 310 of a pogo style connector.
While FIG. 4B illustrates a communication cradle having wiping style connectors, alternative cradles for use with the handheld computer 100 may employ pogo style connectors. The handheld computer 100 may then be dimensioned, shaped, or may position the connector 150 for a pogo style connector on the cradle. For example, the cradle may mount the connector on a ledge that directs the pogo contact elements vertically with respect to the handheld computer, rather than the front face of the cradle. The handheld computer is then aligned to rest over the ledge of the cradle, with the connector 150 aligned to contact the pogo connector of the cradle. An example of this arrangement using pogo style connectors is found on Nino™ personal companion and matching cradle, manufactured by the Philips Corp. Embodiments of the present invention may accommodate either kinds of connectors, thereby increasing the flexibility of the output port and the handheld computer 100 as a whole.
The foregoing description of various embodiments of the invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and equivalent arrangements will be apparent.

Claims (8)

What is claimed is:
1. A handheld computer, comprising:
a housing having a front face, a back face, a top surface and a bottom surface; and
an electrical connector positioned on a portion of the back face and on a portion of the bottom surface, the connector having a plurality of conductive elements, each of the conductive elements including a first portion positioned on the bottom surface and a second portion extending from the first portion and positioned on the back face, first portions of the conductive elements being oriented to mate with first contacts of a first style connector positioned to oppose the bottom surface, and second portions of the conductive elements aligned to mate with second contacts of a second style connector positioned adjacent to the back face of the handheld computer; and
an insulative structure including a plurality of insulative extensions, each of the insulative extensions positioned between a pair of adjacent conductive elements in the plurality of conductive elements to extend a first surface between the first portions of each of the pair of adjacent conductive elements, and a second surface between second portions of each of the pair of adjacent conductive elements, the insulative structure further including a pair of apertures for coupling to the first style connector, the pair of apertures being positioned to laterally oppose one another across the plurality of conductive elements, each of the apertures being adapted to receive and secure to a spring-biased coupling of the first style connector so that each of the first contacts mates with each corresponding first portion of he plurality of conductive elements.
2. The handheld computer of claim 1, wherein the first portion and the second portion of each conductive element are orthogonal to each other.
3. The handheld computer of claim 1, wherein the first portion of each conductive element is adapted to mate with a pogo-style connector, and the second portion of each conductive element is adapted to mate with a wiping-style connector.
4. The handheld computer of claim 1, wherein the first portion of each conductive element is parallel to at least a portion of the bottom surface of the handheld computer, and wherein the second portion of each conductive element is parallel to at least a portion of the back face for the handheld computer.
5. The handheld computer of claim 4, wherein the first portion and the second portion of each conductive element are planar in shape.
6. The handheld computer of claim 4, wherein the first portion of each conductive element is contoured.
7. The handheld computer of claim 1, further comprising a processor retained within the housing.
8. The handheld computer of claim 7, further comprising a display and a plurality of input buttons for interacting with a user of the handheld computer.
US09/318,886 1999-05-26 1999-05-26 Dual style connector for handheld computer Expired - Lifetime US6283777B1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/318,886 US6283777B1 (en) 1999-05-26 1999-05-26 Dual style connector for handheld computer
PCT/US2000/012853 WO2000074175A1 (en) 1999-05-26 2000-05-09 Dual style connector for handheld computer
AU48379/00A AU4837900A (en) 1999-05-26 2000-05-09 Dual style connector for handheld computer

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/318,886 US6283777B1 (en) 1999-05-26 1999-05-26 Dual style connector for handheld computer

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US6283777B1 true US6283777B1 (en) 2001-09-04

Family

ID=23239977

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/318,886 Expired - Lifetime US6283777B1 (en) 1999-05-26 1999-05-26 Dual style connector for handheld computer

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US6283777B1 (en)
AU (1) AU4837900A (en)
WO (1) WO2000074175A1 (en)

Cited By (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20020132511A1 (en) * 2001-03-14 2002-09-19 Groebe Daniel P. Connector scheme for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US20020186546A1 (en) * 2001-06-07 2002-12-12 Chia-Ching Lo Web pad module with coupling devices installed on a rear side of a web pad
US6507336B1 (en) * 1999-02-04 2003-01-14 Palm, Inc. Keyboard for a handheld computer
US6545862B1 (en) * 2000-05-25 2003-04-08 Palm, Inc. Method and system for an interchangeable modular display screen for a portable computing device
US20030071791A1 (en) * 2001-10-11 2003-04-17 Palm, Inc. Accessory module for handheld devices
US6558189B2 (en) 2001-03-14 2003-05-06 Palm, Inc. Connector system for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US6646873B2 (en) * 2001-03-28 2003-11-11 Wistron Corporation Personal digital assistant for connecting with a communtcations module
US6788285B2 (en) 2001-04-10 2004-09-07 Palmone, Inc. Portable computer with removable input mechanism
US20050064765A1 (en) * 2003-09-24 2005-03-24 Simpson Russell L. Self-cleaning connector
US20050259605A1 (en) * 2002-07-12 2005-11-24 Stig Frohlund Connector arrangement for a communication terminal
US20060228937A1 (en) * 2001-07-25 2006-10-12 Nobuhito Ebine Structures of terminals and component-to-be-loaded
US20070255114A1 (en) * 2006-04-26 2007-11-01 Friedrich Ackermann Apparatus and method to administer and manage an intelligent base unit for a handheld medical device
US20080102675A1 (en) * 2006-10-31 2008-05-01 Ben Michaeli Locking Cradle for a mobile device
US7708416B2 (en) 2005-08-13 2010-05-04 Michael Yurochko Lighting and usability features for key structures and keypads on computing devices
US7716082B1 (en) * 2000-08-24 2010-05-11 Gilbarco, Inc. Wireless payment mat device and method for retail environments
US7758203B2 (en) * 2006-04-03 2010-07-20 Welch Allyn, Inc. Power connections and interface for compact illuminator assembly
US7976337B1 (en) * 2001-03-07 2011-07-12 Palm, Inc. Palmtop computer docking system with USB cable assembly
US8350728B2 (en) 2010-04-23 2013-01-08 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Keyboard with integrated and numeric keypad
US8373663B2 (en) 2005-03-14 2013-02-12 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Small form-factor keypad for mobile computing devices
US8989822B2 (en) 2006-09-08 2015-03-24 Qualcomm Incorporated Keypad assembly for use on a contoured surface of a mobile computing device
US9142369B2 (en) 2005-03-14 2015-09-22 Qualcomm Incorporated Stack assembly for implementing keypads on mobile computing devices
US20160218472A1 (en) * 2015-01-26 2016-07-28 Acer Incorporated Electronic device

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6878016B2 (en) * 2002-12-12 2005-04-12 Symbol Technologies, Inc. High cycle connector contact system

Citations (37)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3744034A (en) 1972-01-27 1973-07-03 Perkin Elmer Corp Method and apparatus for providing a security system for a computer
US4613196A (en) * 1983-05-13 1986-09-23 Jane G. Montgomery Telephone cord terminating plug
US4740167A (en) * 1984-03-02 1988-04-26 Amp Incorporated Power distribution unit for modular wall panels
US4860372A (en) 1985-08-28 1989-08-22 Hitachi, Ltd. Real time handwritten character input system
US4972496A (en) 1986-07-25 1990-11-20 Grid Systems Corporation Handwritten keyboardless entry computer system
US5030902A (en) * 1988-05-11 1991-07-09 Wella Aktiengesellschaft Mechanism for an electrical appliance
US5052943A (en) * 1989-03-23 1991-10-01 Norand Corporation Recharging and data retrieval apparatus
US5220270A (en) * 1992-04-24 1993-06-15 Automatic Technologies, Inc. Battery charging device with secured contact unit
US5231381A (en) 1989-10-02 1993-07-27 U.S. Philips Corp. Data processing system with a touch screen and a digitizing tablet, both integrated in an input device
US5305394A (en) 1991-04-30 1994-04-19 Sony Corporation Character inputting apparatus
US5306196A (en) * 1992-01-30 1994-04-26 Nec Corporation Electric circuit board unit and electric connector and use therein
US5354216A (en) * 1992-08-11 1994-10-11 Molex Incorporated Mounting system for electrical connectors
US5387110A (en) * 1993-11-12 1995-02-07 International Business Machines Corporation Reversible dual media adapter cable
US5389745A (en) 1991-09-11 1995-02-14 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Handwriting input apparatus for inputting handwritten data from unspecified direction
US5411405A (en) 1993-11-12 1995-05-02 Angia Communications, Inc. Miniature electrical communications connectors
US5415570A (en) * 1992-12-28 1995-05-16 At&T Corp. Modular connector with contacts associated with more than one surface
US5434929A (en) 1994-07-12 1995-07-18 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for setting character style preferences in a pen-based computer system
US5440449A (en) 1994-01-26 1995-08-08 Intel Corporation Wireless communication connector and module for notebook personal computers
US5444192A (en) 1993-07-01 1995-08-22 Integral Information Systems Interactive data entry apparatus
US5452371A (en) 1992-05-27 1995-09-19 Apple Computer, Inc. Method of aligning shapes on a display of a computer system
US5459637A (en) 1993-12-06 1995-10-17 Ma; Hsi K. Portable notebook computer expansion adapter
US5528743A (en) 1993-05-27 1996-06-18 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for inserting text on a pen-based computer system
US5534892A (en) 1992-05-20 1996-07-09 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Display-integrated type tablet device having and idle time in one display image frame to detect coordinates and having different electrode densities
US5576530A (en) * 1995-05-11 1996-11-19 Universal Data Incorporated Portable data terminal including a scanning head that is secured to the terminal in a manner that allows the scanning head to be positioned in opposite orientations
US5615284A (en) 1993-11-29 1997-03-25 International Business Machines Corporation Stylus-input recognition correction manager computer program product
US5630148A (en) 1994-06-17 1997-05-13 Intel Corporation Dynamic processor performance and power management in a computer system
WO1997018602A1 (en) 1995-11-13 1997-05-22 Intel Corporation A dual-in-line universal serial bus connector
US5698822A (en) 1994-05-16 1997-12-16 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Input and display apparatus for handwritten characters
US5770330A (en) * 1996-10-24 1998-06-23 Motorola, Inc. Battery package with multiple surface charging contacts
US5816826A (en) 1996-06-14 1998-10-06 Texas Instruments Incorporated Computer circuit board with direct connect peripheral slot assembly
US5841901A (en) 1992-05-27 1998-11-24 Hitachi, Ltd. Pattern recognition system
US5941648A (en) * 1998-10-21 1999-08-24 Olivetti Office U.S.A., Inc. Personal digital assistant having a foldable keyboard component
USD416001S (en) * 1998-10-30 1999-11-02 3 Com Corporation Handheld computer device
US5993231A (en) * 1996-03-22 1999-11-30 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Electric connector
US5999400A (en) * 1998-11-30 1999-12-07 Berg Technology, Inc. Modular plug with electronic components
US6086403A (en) * 1996-12-09 2000-07-11 Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. Electrical connector
US6115248A (en) * 1999-05-17 2000-09-05 Palm, Inc. Detachable securement of an accessory device to a handheld computer

Patent Citations (38)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3744034A (en) 1972-01-27 1973-07-03 Perkin Elmer Corp Method and apparatus for providing a security system for a computer
US4613196A (en) * 1983-05-13 1986-09-23 Jane G. Montgomery Telephone cord terminating plug
US4740167A (en) * 1984-03-02 1988-04-26 Amp Incorporated Power distribution unit for modular wall panels
US4860372A (en) 1985-08-28 1989-08-22 Hitachi, Ltd. Real time handwritten character input system
US4972496A (en) 1986-07-25 1990-11-20 Grid Systems Corporation Handwritten keyboardless entry computer system
US5030902A (en) * 1988-05-11 1991-07-09 Wella Aktiengesellschaft Mechanism for an electrical appliance
US5052943A (en) * 1989-03-23 1991-10-01 Norand Corporation Recharging and data retrieval apparatus
US5231381A (en) 1989-10-02 1993-07-27 U.S. Philips Corp. Data processing system with a touch screen and a digitizing tablet, both integrated in an input device
US5305394A (en) 1991-04-30 1994-04-19 Sony Corporation Character inputting apparatus
US5389745A (en) 1991-09-11 1995-02-14 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Handwriting input apparatus for inputting handwritten data from unspecified direction
US5306196A (en) * 1992-01-30 1994-04-26 Nec Corporation Electric circuit board unit and electric connector and use therein
US5220270A (en) * 1992-04-24 1993-06-15 Automatic Technologies, Inc. Battery charging device with secured contact unit
US5534892A (en) 1992-05-20 1996-07-09 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Display-integrated type tablet device having and idle time in one display image frame to detect coordinates and having different electrode densities
US5452371A (en) 1992-05-27 1995-09-19 Apple Computer, Inc. Method of aligning shapes on a display of a computer system
US5841901A (en) 1992-05-27 1998-11-24 Hitachi, Ltd. Pattern recognition system
US5621817A (en) 1992-05-27 1997-04-15 Apple Computer, Inc. Pointer-based computer system capable of aligning geometric figures
US5354216A (en) * 1992-08-11 1994-10-11 Molex Incorporated Mounting system for electrical connectors
US5415570A (en) * 1992-12-28 1995-05-16 At&T Corp. Modular connector with contacts associated with more than one surface
US5528743A (en) 1993-05-27 1996-06-18 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for inserting text on a pen-based computer system
US5444192A (en) 1993-07-01 1995-08-22 Integral Information Systems Interactive data entry apparatus
US5411405A (en) 1993-11-12 1995-05-02 Angia Communications, Inc. Miniature electrical communications connectors
US5387110A (en) * 1993-11-12 1995-02-07 International Business Machines Corporation Reversible dual media adapter cable
US5615284A (en) 1993-11-29 1997-03-25 International Business Machines Corporation Stylus-input recognition correction manager computer program product
US5459637A (en) 1993-12-06 1995-10-17 Ma; Hsi K. Portable notebook computer expansion adapter
US5440449A (en) 1994-01-26 1995-08-08 Intel Corporation Wireless communication connector and module for notebook personal computers
US5698822A (en) 1994-05-16 1997-12-16 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Input and display apparatus for handwritten characters
US5630148A (en) 1994-06-17 1997-05-13 Intel Corporation Dynamic processor performance and power management in a computer system
US5434929A (en) 1994-07-12 1995-07-18 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for setting character style preferences in a pen-based computer system
US5576530A (en) * 1995-05-11 1996-11-19 Universal Data Incorporated Portable data terminal including a scanning head that is secured to the terminal in a manner that allows the scanning head to be positioned in opposite orientations
WO1997018602A1 (en) 1995-11-13 1997-05-22 Intel Corporation A dual-in-line universal serial bus connector
US5993231A (en) * 1996-03-22 1999-11-30 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Electric connector
US5816826A (en) 1996-06-14 1998-10-06 Texas Instruments Incorporated Computer circuit board with direct connect peripheral slot assembly
US5770330A (en) * 1996-10-24 1998-06-23 Motorola, Inc. Battery package with multiple surface charging contacts
US6086403A (en) * 1996-12-09 2000-07-11 Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. Electrical connector
US5941648A (en) * 1998-10-21 1999-08-24 Olivetti Office U.S.A., Inc. Personal digital assistant having a foldable keyboard component
USD416001S (en) * 1998-10-30 1999-11-02 3 Com Corporation Handheld computer device
US5999400A (en) * 1998-11-30 1999-12-07 Berg Technology, Inc. Modular plug with electronic components
US6115248A (en) * 1999-05-17 2000-09-05 Palm, Inc. Detachable securement of an accessory device to a handheld computer

Non-Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
Bursky, D., "Evolving DSP chips do more", Electronic Design, vol. 38, No. 23, pp. 51-59, Dec. 1990.
Dayton, D., "FRx extends reporting power of Plantinum Series", PC Week, vol. 8, No. 5, p. 29(2), Feb. 1991.
Feigel, C., "IBM, Motorola preview embedded PowerPCs; 403 and 505 processors combine strong performance with low cost", Microprocessor Report, vol. 8, No. 6, pp. 1-5, May 1994.
Forbes, J. et al., "Palm PCs get a Big Hand (What's Hot)", Windows Magazine, No. 905, p. 96, May 1998.
Gray, R. et al., "Efficient MC68HC08 programming: reducing cycle count and improving code density", Dr. Dobb's Journal, vol. 20, No. 5, May 1995, pp. 70-75.
Penwarden, M., "More Muscle for HP's OmniBook", Windows Magazine, No. 501, p.110, Jan. 1994.
Ruley, J. et al., "Handheld-to-Handheld Combat", Windows Magazine, No. 811, p. 55, Nov. 1997.

Cited By (37)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6507336B1 (en) * 1999-02-04 2003-01-14 Palm, Inc. Keyboard for a handheld computer
US6545862B1 (en) * 2000-05-25 2003-04-08 Palm, Inc. Method and system for an interchangeable modular display screen for a portable computing device
US7716082B1 (en) * 2000-08-24 2010-05-11 Gilbarco, Inc. Wireless payment mat device and method for retail environments
US7976337B1 (en) * 2001-03-07 2011-07-12 Palm, Inc. Palmtop computer docking system with USB cable assembly
US20020132511A1 (en) * 2001-03-14 2002-09-19 Groebe Daniel P. Connector scheme for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US6558189B2 (en) 2001-03-14 2003-05-06 Palm, Inc. Connector system for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US6638092B2 (en) * 2001-03-14 2003-10-28 Palm, Inc. Connector scheme for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US6875039B2 (en) 2001-03-14 2005-04-05 Palmone, Inc. Connector scheme for use with mobile devices and their accessory devices
US6869304B2 (en) 2001-03-14 2005-03-22 Palmone, Inc. Connector scheme for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US6646873B2 (en) * 2001-03-28 2003-11-11 Wistron Corporation Personal digital assistant for connecting with a communtcations module
US6788285B2 (en) 2001-04-10 2004-09-07 Palmone, Inc. Portable computer with removable input mechanism
US6906917B2 (en) * 2001-06-07 2005-06-14 Abocom Systems, Inc. Web pad module with coupling devices installed on a rear side of a web pad
US20020186546A1 (en) * 2001-06-07 2002-12-12 Chia-Ching Lo Web pad module with coupling devices installed on a rear side of a web pad
US7281945B2 (en) * 2001-07-25 2007-10-16 Sony Corporation Structures of terminals and component-to-be-loaded
US7556526B2 (en) 2001-07-25 2009-07-07 Sony Corporation Structures of terminals and component-to-be-loaded
US20090068880A1 (en) * 2001-07-25 2009-03-12 Nobuhito Ebine Structures of terminals and component-to-be-loaded
US20060228937A1 (en) * 2001-07-25 2006-10-12 Nobuhito Ebine Structures of terminals and component-to-be-loaded
US7435133B2 (en) 2001-07-25 2008-10-14 Sony Corporation Battery device having a casing with plural terminal grooves wherein opposing contact pieces of each terminal member are disposed in each terminal groove
US20070218754A1 (en) * 2001-07-25 2007-09-20 Nobuhito Ebine Structures of terminals and component-to-be-loaded
US7280100B2 (en) 2001-10-11 2007-10-09 Palm, Inc. Accessory module for handheld devices
US20030071791A1 (en) * 2001-10-11 2003-04-17 Palm, Inc. Accessory module for handheld devices
US8049727B2 (en) 2001-10-11 2011-11-01 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Accessory module for handheld devices
US20070080935A1 (en) * 2001-10-11 2007-04-12 Palm, Inc. Accessory module for handheld devices
US20050259605A1 (en) * 2002-07-12 2005-11-24 Stig Frohlund Connector arrangement for a communication terminal
US6935901B2 (en) * 2003-09-24 2005-08-30 Motorola, Inc. Self-cleaning connector
US20050064765A1 (en) * 2003-09-24 2005-03-24 Simpson Russell L. Self-cleaning connector
US8373663B2 (en) 2005-03-14 2013-02-12 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Small form-factor keypad for mobile computing devices
US9142369B2 (en) 2005-03-14 2015-09-22 Qualcomm Incorporated Stack assembly for implementing keypads on mobile computing devices
US7708416B2 (en) 2005-08-13 2010-05-04 Michael Yurochko Lighting and usability features for key structures and keypads on computing devices
US7758203B2 (en) * 2006-04-03 2010-07-20 Welch Allyn, Inc. Power connections and interface for compact illuminator assembly
US20070255114A1 (en) * 2006-04-26 2007-11-01 Friedrich Ackermann Apparatus and method to administer and manage an intelligent base unit for a handheld medical device
US8770482B2 (en) 2006-04-26 2014-07-08 Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. Apparatus and method to administer and manage an intelligent base unit for a handheld medical device
US8989822B2 (en) 2006-09-08 2015-03-24 Qualcomm Incorporated Keypad assembly for use on a contoured surface of a mobile computing device
US20080102675A1 (en) * 2006-10-31 2008-05-01 Ben Michaeli Locking Cradle for a mobile device
US8350728B2 (en) 2010-04-23 2013-01-08 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Keyboard with integrated and numeric keypad
US20160218472A1 (en) * 2015-01-26 2016-07-28 Acer Incorporated Electronic device
US9673566B2 (en) * 2015-01-26 2017-06-06 Acer Incorporated Electronic device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2000074175A1 (en) 2000-12-07
AU4837900A (en) 2000-12-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6283777B1 (en) Dual style connector for handheld computer
CN105356163B (en) Socket electric connector
US8545275B2 (en) Electrical connector with touch-safety contact structures
JP2001274567A (en) Electric connector for removable component
US6454603B2 (en) Shielded connector with integral latching and ground structure
US6558189B2 (en) Connector system for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
KR20050021282A (en) Reduced size eight-pin audio jack electrical connector
EP1064703A1 (en) Type iii pcmcia card with integrated receptacles for receiving standard communications plugs
US7497739B2 (en) Electrical connector assembly
US20080057791A1 (en) Jack connector
US6638092B2 (en) Connector scheme for use with handheld computers and accessory devices
US11581672B2 (en) Shunt device
US5971800A (en) Connector assembly with alternate housings with and without power contacts
EP1100153B1 (en) Receptacle with conductive cavity insertion piece inserted thereinto
US10199784B2 (en) Electronic connector
TWM621401U (en) Board terminal connector having docking holes
JP3236017U (en) Input assembly
US6896527B1 (en) Slim USB male connector with system grounding
TW202224275A (en) Connector with current-diverging structure and connector assembly with the same
CN217903608U (en) Connector with bent metal terminal and metal shielding piece
TWM499692U (en) Improved structure for electrical connector
TWI547039B (en) USB electrical connector of the adapter module
CN215497211U (en) Electric connector and electronic equipment backplate
TW201601395A (en) USB electrical connector and its adapter module
CN220439960U (en) Connector with guide structure and shell thereof

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: 3COM CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:CANOVA, FRANCIS J.;FRANCAVILLA, MADELEINE;HAN, AMY A.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:010240/0977;SIGNING DATES FROM 19990708 TO 19990902

AS Assignment

Owner name: PALM, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:3COM CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:011333/0953

Effective date: 20000621

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

Free format text: PAYER NUMBER DE-ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: RMPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

AS Assignment

Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., NEW YORK

Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:PALM, INC.;REEL/FRAME:020317/0256

Effective date: 20071024

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

AS Assignment

Owner name: PALM, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT;REEL/FRAME:024630/0474

Effective date: 20100701

AS Assignment

Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P., TEXAS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PALM, INC.;REEL/FRAME:025204/0809

Effective date: 20101027

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 12

AS Assignment

Owner name: PALM, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:030341/0459

Effective date: 20130430

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYER NUMBER DE-ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: RMPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

AS Assignment

Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P., TEXAS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PALM, INC.;REEL/FRAME:031837/0659

Effective date: 20131218

Owner name: PALM, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.;REEL/FRAME:031837/0544

Effective date: 20131218

Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P., TEXAS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PALM, INC.;REEL/FRAME:031837/0239

Effective date: 20131218

AS Assignment

Owner name: QUALCOMM INCORPORATED, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY;HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P.;PALM, INC.;REEL/FRAME:032132/0001

Effective date: 20140123